The basement floor has the Archives & Special Collections, including the Julia Hendry Reading Room. There are also areas for librarians and library technical services. Status Last checked: June 2nd, 2023 Archives and Special Collections University libraries often have archives and special collections departments. They collect rare and historically significant materials. Researchers from around the world will travel to university archives to do primary-source research. History classes may come to the archive for a class. However, anyone is welcome to come on their own. Ask to feel the cover of a 15th century hymnal or vellum that was used in ancient books. To protect rare material, the reading room has a few more security precautions than other parts of the library: Lockers outside to hold bags No pens allowed in the reading room No food or drink allowed Large window between archival staff area and the reading room Department Head Offices Head of Acquisitions and Collections Head of Digital Initiatives Library Technical Services Areas Various areas for library technical staff Student employee room Amenities Two standard public washrooms Single user, accessible washroom (example from main floor) Water-fountain Other Spaces Shipping and receiving  Review more of the library Description and images of exterior, Waterloo campus library Entrance level, description and images of 2nd floor, Waterloo campus library Description and images of 3rd floor, Waterloo campus library Description and images of 4th floor, Waterloo campus library Description and images of 5th, 6th, and 7th floors, Waterloo campus library Â